History

Texas State University offers a four year curriculum leading to a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy. The program is a result of collaboration between the Shivers Cancer Center in Austin and the university. The Radiation Therapy Program accepted its first cohort of students in 1998 and graduated its first class in 2000. The curriculum was prepared using guidelines of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists Professional Curriculum. Members of the Joint Review Committee of Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT) have served as consultants to review the curriculum. As of 2005, the program has had two JRCERT site visits and has been fully accredited as of 2000.

The learning experience and resources available to the student include an extensive computer lab for research, treatment planning, and training in health informational systems. Anatomical structure and function is emphasized by means of the study of human cadavers. Learning strategies incorporate multi-media formats in “Smart” classrooms equipped to integrate technologies in teaching. Clinical education is provided at 16 clinical sites located in Austin, San Marcos, New Braunfels, and San Antonio. The student’s clinical experience ranges from treatment techniques of simple protocols to implant therapy using radioactive isotopes to complicated brain treatments using computerized 3-D software.